What most adolescents aspire to is attending college, exploring the world, and cultivating numerous friendships. A 12-year-old named Taylor Smith from Johnson City, Tennessee, shared these common dreams. Taylor, an avid fan of Doctor Who, spent her days surrounded by family and friends.
In April 2013, Taylor penned a letter to her future self, articulating her aspirations. Placing the letter in a box with the instruction, “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 12, 2023 only (unless said otherwise),” she envisioned a future where she would graduate, travel, and cherish a fulfilling life.
Tragically, Taylor’s life was cut short, and she never witnessed the realization of those dreams. Merely months after composing the letter, Taylor succumbed to complications arising from a sudden onset of pneumonia, leaving her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, grief-stricken by the untimely loss.
While sorting through Taylor’s belongings, her parents stumbled upon the letter. Moved profoundly, they decided to share it online, hoping to offer solace to others facing adversity.
In expressing her sentiments, Mary Ellen conveyed, “I can’t physically resurrect her, I can’t bring her back, but I’m so grateful people have been inspired by her story.”
Below unfolds the poignant letter penned by Taylor to her future self:
Dear Taylor,
How’s life? Life is pretty simple right now (10 years in your past). I know I’m late for you, but as I’m writing, this is early, so; congratulations on graduating high school! If you didn’t, go back and keep trying. Get that degree! Are you (we) in college? If not, I understand. We do have pretty good reasoning, after all.
Don’t forget, it’s Allana’s 11th birthday today! Sheesh, 11 already? In my time, she just turned 1! I didn’t get to go to that party though because I was in Cranks, Kentucky, for my first mission trip. I’ve only been back for 6 days!
Speaking of, how’s your relationship with GOD? Have you prayed, worshipped, read the Bible, or gone to serve the Lord recently? If not, get up and do so NOW! I don’t care what point in our life we’re in right now, do it! He was mocked, beaten, tortured, and crucified for you! A sinless man who never did you or any other person any wrong!
Now, have you gone on any more mission trips? Have you been out of the country yet? How about on a plane?
Is Doctor Who still on the air? If not, what regeneration did they end it with? You should go watch some Doctor Who! Later though, you gotta finish reading your own words of wisdom!
Do you have your own place yet? If we’re in college, what are we majoring in? Right now, I want to be a lawyer.
Have you been to Dollywood recently? Right now, their newest attraction is the Wild Eagle. It’s so fun!
Also, I think I’m going to sell my iPad and buy an iPad mini. Don’t forget to tell your kids that we’re older than the tablet! Attached, I also have a drawing of an iPad, so you can show them.
Well, I think that’s all. But remember, it’s been 10 years since I wrote this. Stuff has happened, good and bad. That’s just how life works, and you have to go with it.
Sincerely, Taylor Smith
These heartfelt words echo the thoughts of an angel taken too soon from her family. If Taylor’s story resonates with you, kindly share it to honor her memory.
